The “Gender Data Gap” project has successfully come to an end. The aim of this Partnership Initiative (BI) was to address the lack of reliable data on gender equality in the textile industry. Although issues such as discrimination, sexual harassment, and gender-based violence are well known within the sector, there is still a lack of transparent and dependable data to accurately assess the extent of these problems and develop targeted strategies to combat inequality. With the “Assessment and Action Guide”, the BI Gender Data Gap has developed a practical and scalable tool to help companies measure discrimination and take long-term action against it.
Why Are Data So Essential?
Like in many other industries, the textile sector lacks the necessary data to realistically assess the state of gender equality. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for companies to implement targeted measures that reduce discrimination and violence in the workplace. Without clear data, many businesses struggle to respond to existing inequalities and address them systematically.
Project Goals and Key Measures
The project aimed to develop a practical solution for data collection. The “Assessment and Action Guide” includes a detailed questionnaire for interviews, a methodology and training manual, and a compact survey that can be used regularly in production sites to track progress.
In addition to developing the guide, a key focus was on capacity building in Tunisian production facilities. Over 100 employees in each factory received training on topics such as labor rights and workplace safety. These sessions helped raise awareness among the workforce and emphasized the importance of gender equality and fair working conditions.
Key Project Milestones
The project achieved several important milestones that demonstrate its success and impact:
- Extensive On-Site Stakeholder Engagement: Three field visits to Tunisia enabled direct exchanges with local NGOs such as FTDES and the Fair Wear Foundation, and fostered close collaboration with HR managers and auditors in the factories. This personal interaction was critical for building trust and effective cooperation.
- Capacity Training: More than 100 employees per factory received training on labor law and gender equality. These sessions significantly increased awareness of rights and strengthened the capacity to identify and address workplace discrimination.
- Translations and Global Dissemination: The “Assessment and Action Guide” has been translated into over 10 languages and published for use in the textile sector. This makes the guide accessible to a broad international audience and allows the topic of gender equality to be addressed across borders.
- OECD Forum: The project was presented at the OECD Footwear and Garment Sector Forum in collaboration with the Ethical Trading Initiative. A recording of the session is publicly available and offers valuable insights into the project’s work.
- Future Outlook: In April, an open online session showcased the project and guide in detail. The session provided practical insights into how the guide can be used as a preventive tool against gender-based discrimination. The session is now available for on-demand viewing: Online Sesstion PST Initiative Closing the Gender Data Gap Project Results
Learnings and Insights
In addition to delivering strong results, the project generated key insights that will influence future initiatives and efforts to promote gender equality:
- Equal Partnerships: One of the most important findings was that close, collaborative work with production sites and stakeholders — especially local NGOs — significantly increased engagement and intrinsic motivation. For example, one factory independently organized a follow-up training to improve working conditions and further educate employees.
- Flexibility as a Success Factor: Another important learning was the need for flexibility throughout the project. In a politically unstable context like Tunisia and the broader Arab region, it was essential to adapt quickly to challenges. One such challenge was the temporary cancellation of a training due to political uncertainty—which was eventually carried out successfully thanks to the dedication of all involved.
- Clear Definitions Are Crucial: During the development of the guide, it became clear that well-crafted questions alone were not enough. Defining key terms — such as “Gender Data Gap” and “Verbal Abuse” — was essential, as their meanings can vary depending on cultural context. Through close collaboration with stakeholders, a consensus was reached, making the guide clearer and more applicable.
Looking Ahead
The Partnership Initiative “Gender Data Gap” has made an important contribution to promoting gender equality in the textile industry. The “Assessment and Action Guide” serves as a valuable resource for companies and NGOs to identify, measure, and overcome discrimination. Going forward, the guide will continue to be a useful tool for stakeholders working in social responsibility and equality.
The project has demonstrated that through collaboration, flexibility, and practical tools, even complex issues such as gender-based discrimination can be measured and effectively addressed. The outcomes will continue to be shared beyond the project’s conclusion, with the aim of further global dissemination to improve working conditions and equality in the textile industry.
Want to Learn More?
Visit the Partnership Initiative’s website to access the full “Assessment and Action Guide”, find additional resources on its implementation, and watch videos explaining the project: https://www.textilbuendnis.com/buendnisinitiative-gender-data-gap/